Metaphysics in the Metaphors

A Study of Iqbal’s poetry-I

Abstract

Metaphors are considered as being expressions that are largely affected by values inherent in any culture. Therefore, the meaning should be inferred by referring to share cultural knowledge. Since, metaphors are based on culture; a non-native speaker may find it difficult to understand its literal meaning. Hence, this study provides the basic knowledge of cultural values of Iqbal and the way they have influenced his poetry and his use of metaphors. Furthermore, it has facilitated in understanding the concept of Iqbal’s poetry and his conceptualization of metaphors. Likewise, Iqbal has used the example of eagle to refer to the youth. So, it is important to understand the language and culture to analyze the basic understanding of the use of metaphors in that language. This study has examined in detail the use of metaphors by Iqbal in his Urdu poetry with its translation and the researcher has explained how these have become pervasive to human language. Iqbal has attempted to persuade the readers of his poetry using different metaphors; therefore, this study has explored the work of Iqbal to understand the underlying message of his poetry. Furthermore, this study has provided an account on Iqbal’s life, examining his early life and his education. A section of the study provides description of the published work of Iqbal in different languages including Persian, Urdu and English. However, for the purpose of this research, analysis has only been conducted on Iqbal’s Urdu poetry. It has facilitated the researcher to understand the different functions of metaphors and their use in Iqbal’s poetry. The main purpose is to determine different symbols that Iqbal has used to refer to various concepts such as love, nation, and perfect man and so on.